I am a PhD student in the ELECTROLIFE project, which I joined in November 2024. My academic journey began in Istanbul, Türkiye, where I completed my undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering. Later, I pursued a master’s degree in Clean Energy Processes at University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), where my thesis focused on the mechanical degradation of anode catalysts in alkaline water electrolysis, supervised by Professor Bastian Etzold. Now, as a doctoral researcher under Professor Etzold’s guidance, my work in ELECTROLIFE focuses on understanding various degradation mechanisms in alkaline water electrolysis. This research is crucial for advancing sustainable hydrogen production technologies and addressing global energy challenges.
What was your original motivation to become a researcher?
My motivation to become a researcher traces back to my primary school days, where my natural curiosity drove me to seek answers to my many questions. This curiosity only deepened during high school when I had the opportunity to attend a summer program at a university. It was there that I decided to pursue a career in engineering, inspired by an electrical engineer who had an unconventional path from studying medicine to engineering.
During my university years, I discovered that my ethical perspective aligned strongly with research, as it offered a meaningful way to contribute to society. The idea of applying knowledge to solve real-world problems and create a positive impact became my driving force. Research, to me, is not just about curiosity; it’s about using that curiosity to make a difference. I envision a life where I can continuously expand my understanding while contributing to advancements that benefit the world.
What is your (main) research area today?
I am a PhD student at University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, working at the Institute for Power-to-X Technologies. Our research spans diverse topics, including CO₂ capture through adsorption, electrocatalytic and heterogeneous catalytic processes, and bridging the gap between natural science and engineering disciplines.
Within this interdisciplinary framework, my specific focus is on alkaline water electrolysis. My research aims to understand the degradation mechanisms that impact the performance and longevity of electrolyzers. By investigating these mechanisms, I strive to develop strategies to mitigate degradation and enhance the durability and efficiency of this critical technology.
Alkaline water electrolysis is essential for sustainable hydrogen production, and through my work, I aim to contribute to advancing renewable energy solutions and fostering a more sustainable future.
What are the main objectives of your team in ELECTROLIFE?
The main objectives of our team in ELECTROLIFE are to develop a thorough understanding of the degradation mechanisms in alkaline water electrolysis and to identify effective strategies to mitigate these issues, thereby improving the performance and extending the operational lifetime of electrolyzers.
What expertise and facilities does your team have to meet those objectives?
Our team is exceptionally well-equipped to achieve the core objectives of the Electrolife project, which focuses on understanding and mitigating degradation mechanisms in alkaline water electrolysis systems. Established in 2023 under the leadership of Prof. Bastian J.M. Etzold, a recipient of the prestigious Bavarian Distinguished Professorship, our institute is committed to driving sustainable innovations that steer the chemical industry toward a greener future.
Our state-of-the-art laboratory facilities are specifically designed to support advanced experimental research. Equipped with cutting-edge tools, we perform in-depth characterization and testing of electrolyzer cells and stacks under real-world operating conditions. These facilities enable us to conduct detailed analyses of degradation mechanisms, providing valuable insights that directly inform the development of more durable and efficient electrolyzers.
By combining our expertise with a hands-on, data-driven approach, we ensure that we are not only addressing the challenges of the Electrolife project but also contributing meaningfully to advancing sustainable hydrogen production technologies. This comprehensive strategy positions us as a key player in the transition to renewable energy solutions.
Which aspects of your research at ELECTROLIFE do you find the most innovative and what unique opportunities offer ELECTROLIFE to you and your organisation?
The ELECTROLIFE project offers an unparalleled opportunity to address one of the most pressing challenges in green hydrogen production—understanding and mitigating degradation mechanisms in electrolysis technologies. As an academic partner focused on these degradation mechanisms, I find the most innovative aspect of the project lies in contributing to the development of sustainable and efficient solutions for green hydrogen production. This aligns closely with the global push for cleaner energy alternatives and the transition to a carbon-neutral future.
Working on this project as a PhD student provides me with a remarkable platform to deepen my academic expertise while tackling some of the most advanced and current scientific questions in the field of electrolysis. It allows me to explore novel methodologies, gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge experimental techniques, and contribute to the broader understanding of electrochemical systems.
Additionally, being part of ELECTROLIFE is a unique privilege, as it fosters collaboration between industry leaders, research institutes, and academic organizations. This interdisciplinary approach not only enhances the overall impact of the project but also provides me with invaluable insights into real-world applications and innovation-driven problem-solving. The opportunity to work closely with industry partners and other researchers is a cornerstone of this project, making it an exceptional learning and professional development experience.
How do you see the future use and impact of the ELECTROLIFE results?
I foresee the results from ELECTROLIFE having a significant and lasting impact on the hydrogen sector. The project’s work will deepen our understanding of degradation mechanisms while simultaneously driving advancements in durability, performance, and reliability across various electrolysis systems. Beyond this, it will contribute to refining operational strategies, enabling the development of more effective monitoring, diagnostic, and optimization tools. These improvements are essential for extending the operational lifespan of systems, enhancing efficiency, and reducing overall costs.
What makes ELECTROLIFE particularly impactful is its potential to empower both project partners and the broader hydrogen community with actionable results. These outcomes will not only strengthen the economic viability of green hydrogen but also play a pivotal role in its widespread adoption, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of sustainable energy solutions.
